Conservation officer​

Conservation officers work to protect native animals and to maintain and restore native vegetation and bushland.

Conservation officers collect seeds from local and native plants, tend to native trees and shrubs, collect botanical and environmental data and maintain tracks in bushland. Most of this work is outdoors where workers are exposed to the elements.

Where conservation officers are employed

Conservation officers work in state, territory and local governments, private organisations and mining companies.

Job opportunities are expanding with greater awareness of environmental issues. With experience and sometimes further training conservation officers may progress to more senior or specialised roles such as technical officer, project officer and project manager.

Pay

Full-time conservation officers in South Australia generally earn between $1,250 and $1,599 per week.

Job prospects

In 2011 there were 231 people employed full time as conservation officers in South Australia compared with 195 in 2006.

How to become one

You can work as a conservation officer without formal qualifications. You will probably get some informal training on the job. Entry to this occupation may be improved if you have qualifications. You may like to consider a vocational education and training qualification in conservation and land management. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

You can also become a conservation officer through a traineeship in conservation and land management. Entry requirements may vary but employers generally require year 10. For more information see traineeships. Ask your career adviser about the possibility of starting this training in school.

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